Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima has pledged to improve the operating environment for airlines in the country.
Speaking at a meeting with the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) in Abuja, Mr Shettima praised recent regulatory changes, saying they would boost the aviation industry.
“The signing of the CTC Practice Directions is a major boost for ease of doing business in Nigeria’s aviation industry,” he said.
The meeting, held at the Presidential Villa, addressed foreign exchange issues and payment backlogs with the Central Bank of Nigeria and other agencies.
Air Peace CEO Allen Onyema welcomed the government’s initiatives, stating: “What you did on Thursday is going to open up this country to become an economic powerhouse.”
Mr Onyema highlighted the fragile nature of airline operations, saying: “Airlines are exceptional, and any little thing can take an airline out of the market.”
He called for additional support, suggesting: “The Central Bank of Nigeria can give airline operators a window within their system because of the problems of the time.”
Dr Jumoke Oduwole, Special Adviser to the President on investment, described the meeting as “fruitful” and said stakeholders would continue to engage to improve the business environment.
The gathering included representatives from Azman Airline, the Central Bank of Nigeria, and the National Hajj Commission.
